Kids

Holiday Travel Tips for Kids with Cerebral Palsy

Holiday Travel Tips for Kids with Cerebral Palsy

The holiday season brings cherished moments with family and friends, but for parents of children with cerebral palsy, traveling can pose unique challenges. From packing essential items to planning for accessibility, a little preparation can make your holiday journey smoother and more enjoyable for everyone. Here are some practical travel tips to help you navigate holiday travel with confidence and ensure a comfortable experience for your child with cerebral palsy.

1. Plan Ahead for Accessibility

Before heading to your destination, call ahead to confirm accessibility accommodations. Whether you’re traveling by car, plane, or train, ask about facilities like accessible restrooms, elevators, or ramps. For air travel, notify the airline in advance of any special needs to ensure wheelchair access, priority boarding, or other assistance. Many airlines and transportation services have policies to make travel easier for families with disabilities, but these often need to be arranged in advance.

Helpful Tip:

Request aisle seats for more room if you’re flying, or seats near an exit for easier access if you’re taking the train.

2. Bring Essential Equipment and Comfort Items

Traveling with cerebral palsy may require additional equipment to ensure comfort and mobility. Don’t forget essentials like wheelchairs, walkers, or any braces and orthotics that your child uses regularly. Pack comfort items, such as favorite pillows, blankets, or sensory toys, to help them feel more at ease in unfamiliar surroundings.

Suggested Packing List:

  • Wheelchair or mobility device
  • Braces, orthotics, or other supportive equipment
  • Extra batteries or chargers (for powered devices)
  • Favorite comfort items (blanket, stuffed animal, etc.)
  • Portable snacks and drinks for quick energy boosts

3. Prepare Medications and Medical Supplies

If your child takes medication or has specific medical needs, ensure you have an adequate supply for the trip and bring extra, if possible. Pack medications in their original containers and place them in an easily accessible bag for quick retrieval. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of your child’s medical information, including prescriptions and contact information for their healthcare providers.

Essential Medical Supplies:

  • Daily medications and extras
  • Emergency contact information
  • Medical documentation and prescriptions
  • Portable medical devices (like nebulizers if needed)

4. Schedule Frequent Breaks

Long periods of sitting can be uncomfortable for children with cerebral palsy, especially those with high muscle tone. Schedule regular breaks to allow your child to stretch, move, and reset. If you’re driving, plan stops at rest areas along the way. If you’re flying, consider taking walks down the aisle when safe to do so, or finding quiet areas in the airport to relax before boarding.

Pro Tip:

Allowing time for stretching or light movement during breaks can reduce muscle stiffness and make the journey more pleasant for your child.

5. Create a Sensory-friendly Environment

Holiday travel can be overwhelming for children with sensory sensitivities. Crowded airports, loud noises, and bright lights can lead to overstimulation and stress. Bring noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, or sensory toys to help your child cope with these stimuli. Some families also find it helpful to bring a weighted blanket or lap pad, which can provide comfort and a sense of security.

Helpful Item Suggestions:

  • Noise-canceling headphones
  • Sunglasses to reduce light sensitivity
  • Weighted blanket or lap pad
  • Fidget toys for sensory engagement

6. Prepare Your Child for the Journey

Explaining what to expect during the trip can ease anxiety for many children. Talk to your child about the different parts of the journey, such as going through security at the airport, boarding a plane, or making stops along a long car ride. Visual aids, like pictures or videos of airports and airplanes, can help familiarize them with new environments and reduce any fears or uncertainties.

Tip for Younger Children:

Use a social story to walk through each step of the travel process. This can be especially helpful for children with limited communication abilities.

7. Practice Patience and Flexibility

Traveling with children often comes with unexpected changes, and for parents of children with cerebral palsy, flexibility is key. Allow extra time for each step of the journey, whether it’s passing through airport security, loading the car, or navigating a busy rest stop. Building in time for adjustments can help keep stress levels low and allow you to handle any surprises with ease.

Reminder:

It’s okay if things don’t go exactly as planned — focus on enjoying the journey and making memories along the way.

8. Know When to Ask for Help

Many airports, train stations, and other facilities offer support services for families with children with disabilities. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance, whether you need help with luggage, navigating the airport, or finding accessible amenities. Many people are happy to lend a hand to make your travel experience easier.

Extra Tip:

Look for programs like TSA Cares, which offers additional support for travelers with medical conditions or disabilities.

Traveling with Confidence and Joy

As you prepare for the holiday season, remember that thoughtful planning and a flexible mindset can help make travel more enjoyable for everyone. Dr. Siambanes and the team at Children’s Cerebral Palsy are dedicated to supporting families year-round, helping children with cerebral palsy gain greater independence and mobility through specialized orthopedic care. 

We wish you safe travels and a joyful holiday season filled with special moments together.

November 11, 2024 , ,
Holiday Travel Tips for Kids with Cerebral Palsy
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Gift Ideas for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Gift Ideas for Children With Cerebral Palsy

 

With the gift-giving season on the horizon, you might be wondering what types of gifts to purchase for children with Cerebral Palsy.

The Children’s Cerebral Palsy Treatment Center has plenty of answers for all of your gift-giving questions.

Like any gift, it is important that the gift you give to a child with Cerebral Palsy is age-appropriate, matches the child’s developmental stage, and is something that matches the child’s interest. So, if a child for whom you are buying a gift likes animals, get them something related to animals.

Gifts ideas for children with Cerebral Palsy include:

  • Fidget toys that might help strengthen grip
  • Fold and Go trampolines that might help improve balance and leg strength
    • Find a trampoline with a safety rail for extra security.
  • An indoor therapy swing that might help with balance, muscle building, and fine motor skill development
  • Magnetic building blocks, which are a substitute for building block toys that make building easier for children with a lack of fine motor skills
  • Flashcard games for children with special needs
    • A common flashcard game for children with Cerebral Palsy is Feelings in a Flash, which teaches children to identify their emotions and increases their emotional intelligence
  • It is important for children with Cerebral Palsy to socialize, so any gifts that encourage socialization

There are some gifts that we should avoid purchasing for children with Cerebral Palsy.

Gifts that overstimulate the child, particularly if the child has a sensitivity to bright lights or loud noises, should be avoided.

So should toys that require fine motor skills, which the child may not have. Such toys can be frustrating for a child with Cerebral Palsy, and they might not get enjoyment out of playing with a toy that requires such motor skills.

It may take a little bit of extra care, but you can brighten a child’s holiday season with the right gift.

The team at the Children’s Cerebral Palsy Treatment Center wishes you and yours a joyous holiday season!

December 15, 2022 ,
Gift Ideas for Children With Cerebral Palsy
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Preparing Children With Scoliosis for Cold Weather Months

Preparing Children With Scoliosis for Cold Weather Months

Children with scoliosis and Cerebral Palsy already have a difficult time regulating their body temperature, and
cold weather can bring some negative symptoms. In most cases, the hypothalamus is often
damaged with Cerebral Palsy, which might result in autonomic nervous system dysfunction. It is
important to be highly prepared for the beginning of winter weather with any type of Cerebral
Palsy to reduce any negative symptoms that may arise.

The Autonomic Nervous System & Hypothalamus

Since the hypothalamus may be damaged in children with scoliosis and Cerebral Palsy, children may experience body dysfunction and other organ-related disorders/diseases. When the weather is cold, the hypothalamus will sense it and send signals to the muscles that make a person shiver, creating warmth. Children with scoliosis and Cerebral Palsy might not have this basic function because of the potentially damaged hypothalamus and autonomic nervous system. The hypothalamus might also signal the brain to constrict blood vessels to prevent heat loss, but in children with Cerebral Palsy, this might also not be possible.

Preparing for Winter Weather Conditions

Keeping the body warm is essential, and traveling with additional winter clothing can cut down the possibilities of negative symptoms associated with freezing conditions. Sizing up in clothing can also make it simple to layer on top of braces and Velcro straps, making them easier to remove. If residing in a place with frequent or excessive snowfall, it might help to invest in wheelchair tires with extra traction and reinforce ramps. Colder weather affects muscle movements and spasms as well, so acquiring wearable safety materials is imperative.

Other ways to combat weather conditions may include:
– Drinking or eating something warm/cool
– Maintaining heat/air sources in the home and vehicle
– Dress appropriately for current conditions
– Warm or cool baths
– Bring warm or cool water bottles
– Travel with extra essential items in case of emergency
– Medical equipment, blankets, thermal winter clothing, warm/cold compressions
– Stretch muscles often in a safe way to avoid stiffness or spasms

This may feel overwhelming at first, but you will be better prepared for many weather-related situations. Be sure to monitor children closely and be aware of any signs or symptoms of hypothermia or heat stroke. By staying prepared for any weather conditions, your family can maintain a comfortable and regular routine while minimizing any weather-related complications.

 

November 1, 2022 ,
Preparing Children With Scoliosis for Cold Weather Months
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Back-to-School Tips for 2022

Back-to-School Tips for 2022

Parents and children already endure an incredible number of challenges when it comes to education, and the pandemic added to those challenges. Schools around the world put COVID-19 protocols in place for the foreseeable future and special education facilities have increased the protection of their students returning back to school. 

These new changes can be a struggle for students and teachers, especially those with special needs and coexisting conditions, including cerebral palsy. Now that learning is back to in-person, students with disabilities can return to regular socialization and access to vital resources. 

Common challenges associated with remote learning for children with disabilities include taking those children out of their regular routines and dramatically reducing one-on-one learning and in-person socialization with students in the classroom.

Just as the pandemic brought challenges, there were also many brilliant new ideas that came to fruition. Many different resources helped students during these times, and they can still be used in the classroom, enhancing their digital learning experience. When we factor in-person learning into their daily routine, these tips can be crucial for a positive learning experience.

Dr. Siambanes asks parents of children with cerebral palsy to consider including the following items in their child’s in-person learning checklist:

  • Make sure any items your child needs are packed ahead of time (assistive devices, adaptive equipment, etc.)
  • Pack extra face masks and hand sanitizer
  • Review the school calendar daily, monitoring any changes to the schedule
  • Know your child’s educational team thoroughly, and keep in contact with them
  • Ask for assistance if you are unsure of new protocols

When ensuring educational success, it is critical to take important changes and specialty programs into account. Make sure to stay in contact with the recommended professionals, while writing down all your questions, concerns, and needs.

Returning to school can be nerve-wracking for the parent and child, especially when factoring in COVID-19. This has been a difficult time for many and understanding the resources you and your child have at school is very important. Transitional changes can be navigated with the right help from your child’s educational team. 

If you or your child begin feeling overwhelmed or stressed, understand there are people on the special education team for that reason. Many teachers are happy to help and have prior experience with these feelings. It is always okay to reach out for help.

It is important to monitor your child’s feelings and behaviors to identify potential issues, including:

  • Behavioral changes
  • Grade changes
  • Developmental changes
  • Emotional changes

While this may seem like a lot to digest, you will be better prepared for situations that arise. Problems may occur, but you can rest assured that you and your child’s educational team can navigate these problems together. 

By having a strong support system in your child’s family life and educational life, you can learn how to set your child up for success. Many of these things can help your student begin to realize that they can do anything they set their mind to, the opportunities are limitless.

September 5, 2022 , ,
Back-to-School Tips for 2022
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How swimming can help kids with cerebral palsy beat the summer heat, play with friends and improve their overall health

How swimming can help kids with cerebral palsy beat the summer heat, play with friends and improve their overall health

Children with cerebral palsy do not have to be excluded from summer fun with friends and family, and one way to get the kids in the neighborhood together for an inclusive activity is to go swimming. After all, who doesn’t love swimming in the dog days of summer? 

Children with CP can greatly benefit from swimming with proper supervision by a caregiver or therapist, and with flotation devices, if necessary.

“Because we are more buoyant in water, the effects of gravity decline, providing ideal conditions for those with cerebral palsy to stretch and extend muscles and joints with less resistance than one would experience out of the water,” said Dr. David Siambanes, founder of Children’s Cerebral Palsy. “More freedom of movement when swimming means a larger range of motion that can actually help those with CP make progress in their maneuverability.” 

Swimming also has fantastic rehabilitative qualities for those with CP. A study by the National Institute of Health (NIH) showed that for children ages five through 13 with CP who swam for two hours per week gained gross motor function in just six weeks. 

Children with CP also benefit from the overall health effects of swimming, which is a cardiovascular workout that also builds muscle strength. 

Through swimming and other physical activities, kids with CP — and all of us — can improve metabolic rates, increase blood circulation and joint range of motion, improve bone density, fend off anxiety and stress, and boost our energy levels. 

For more information on swimming and other physical activities that can benefit those with Cerebral Palsy, contact Children’s Cerebral Palsy today! 

August 8, 2022 ,
How swimming can help kids with cerebral palsy beat the summer heat, play with friends and improve their overall health
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Ways New Assistive Technology Can Assist Your Child with CP

Ways New Assistive Technology Can Assist Your Child with CP

Assistive technology is any device — electronic or not — that helps maintain, increase or improve functional living for individuals with a disability or impairment. With technological advances happening rapidly, they can be modified and applied to those living with disabilities, as well. These new technologies can improve communication, mobility, learning capabilities and hearing. By using these devices, families can better help their children at home, in school, and during fun activities.

New Assistive Technology at Home 

Some aspects of home life can be difficult when someone in the family lives with cerebral palsy. It is important to utilize the components that work for you and your family and eliminate those that don’t. Family members with disabilities can face a number of unique challenges, and the following devices can be utilized to make life a bit easier:

  • Plates and bowls with non-slip bottoms
  • Adaptive scissors and art supplies
  • Non-skid rugs
  • Automated assistive devices
  • Automated tables and chairs
  • Specialized bathroom devices to encourage independence and confidence

New Assistive Technology in School Environments

Many special education schools and teachers form an Individualized Education Plan for each student. These plans can include assistive devices tailored to the needs of the student. These devices can include:

  • Vision aids – magnifying sheets to assist in reading, as well as text-to-speech programs on computers that can read words aloud for children with hearing challenges.
  • Communication devices – some devices can help a child choose words, letters, or pictures to convey what he or she wants to say. There is also eye-tracking software that helps the user select the appropriate items.
  • Transportation aids – these devices can consist of wheelchairs or powered scooters that can further help a child with their movement in school and beyond.

Overall, assistive technology can be used universally. It is important to include everyone in these new ideas that come into society so that anyone who is interested can get involved. Equal opportunities are crucial for everyone, and children who have Cerebral Palsy can have a difficult time participating in things. By removing these barriers, these children can have the same opportunity! They can thrive and break through social, physical, and cultural stereotypes. By using assistive technology, parents can set their children up for success. Children with Cerebral Palsy can and do have brilliant futures ahead.

 

July 11, 2022 , ,
Ways New Assistive Technology Can Assist Your Child with CP
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Protecting Cerebral Palsy Children from Omicron Variant

Protecting Cerebral Palsy Children from Omicron Variant

The COVID-19 Omicron variant has been rapidly spreading and affecting children, especially those who are being hospitalized. This variant is highly contagious and spreading quickly, which is a serious factor for the families that have a child with cerebral palsy (CP).  

A major concern for parents or caregivers of children who suffer with CP is the COVID-19 pandemic and the new Omicron variant. Families have stopped their extracurricular activities, limited the guests that are welcomed in their home and fear that their lives are never going to become normal again. Most parents are more distressed over the fact that their children won’t be able to live to their full potential. 

Throughout the pandemic, especially now with the second surge of the Omicron variant, children with CP haven’t been able to communicate or gather with other children. They have only attended online school, and in reality, they only leave their house for doctor’s appointments. People fear this is affecting their children’s mental health and sociability. 

It is recommended to continue wearing a mask in any public facility, especially parents that have to go to work, visit the grocery store or run other immediate errands. This will be beneficial to your own health and your child’s when returning home. It is highly valuable to keep the home of someone who suffers CP extremely safe and clean. 

Mental health is a serious concern throughout the pandemic and in particular, children with CP who have been restricted from returning to normal activities due to the new variant . Dr Siambanes has provided helpful tips on improving a child’s mental health of those who suffer from cerebral palsy throughout the pandemic.

  • Outside Activities. Going on daily walks, or meeting friends at the park can drastically improve one’s health. Time spent outdoors is vital to a child’s happiness and can instantly boost their mood. It is safe to go outside and wave to friends at the park as long as you continue to follow the regulations of remaining six feet apart.  
  • Take breaks. Staying away from phones, computers, tablets and televisions is important. Staring at screens all day can be very detrimental to a child’s mental health. Take time to relax, breathe and meditate to stay positive throughout this time. 
  • Keep up with daily care. Make sure to continue staying up to date on your child’s physical care. Dr. Siambanes recommends keeping a physical or digital calendar if they take medicine, have exercises or therapy they need to follow, or have regularly-scheduled doctor’s appointments.
  • Eat Healthy. Continuing to eat healthy can become difficult in quarantine or lockdown, but it is a key element in staying healthy because it strengthens your immune system and creates a more balanced mood. 

While these tips are a general guideline to help maintain mental and physical health, each child’s case of CP is unique and should be tailored to the individual. Those who suffer with cerebral palsy all need different medical attention so, if you notice any serious concerns please reach out to your primary care physician. If you have any other questions or concerns contact Children’s Cerebral Palsy today.

January 26, 2022 ,
Protecting Cerebral Palsy Children from Omicron Variant
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About Dr. Siambanes

Dr. Siambanes, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, is fellowship trained in both pediatric orthopedics and spinal deformities. His passion for addressing the needs of disabled children has led to his expertise in the treatment of Cerebral Palsy.

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Helping Children & Families

  • As a parent, hearing your child needs corrective surgery that includes placing rods and screws in the body, a five day hospital stay and three weeks of recovery can be overwhelming to say the least. Dr. Siambanes and his wonderful staff eased 100% of the stress and worry while making what was in my mind a harrowing ordeal equal to an afternoon visit to the dentist. The hospital staff was attentive and eager to help in anyway possible. My son’s recovery has gone so well and he has healed so quickly, family and friends are amazed he even had surgery.

    Mrs. McKinnon

  • We would like to thank you for all you have done for our granddaughter. Not to very long ago things were not looking very good for Alyssa. That has all changed because of you. You have given her back her future. Thank you so very much. God bless you and keep you.

    Mr. & Mrs. Wajenhurst

  • I scheduled an appointment with Dr. Siambanes to see if my daughter was a candidate for scoliosis surgery. The results following her surgery were fantastic! She flew through surgery and came home only 4 days after! She now sits up straight, her incision has healed beautifully and there were no complications. I cannot express my gratitude to Dr. Siambanes for the amazing surgery he performed on my daughter. He alone took her on when no one else would touch her and now her life has been prolonged and she has a much better quality of life.

    Mrs. Wakizaka